I'm wondering what brands are recommended by you today Scott. I seem to remember you recommending PC Power & Cooling, but then they were bought by OCZ and then Firepower Technology. So I don't know if they still produce Scott Mueller recommended PSUs. What about Corsair or Silverstone?.

After watching your SSD video I think This would be a great option. I believe the motherboard I chose has the correct connector also.

Last edited by FatGuy on Thu May 11, 2017 1:10 pm, edited 8 times in total.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Dec 30, 2016 11:50 am

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

FatGuy wrote:

I'm wondering what brands are recommended by you today Scott. I seem to remember you recommending PC Power & Cooling, but then they were bought by OCZ and then Firepower Technology. So I don't know if they still produce Scott Mueller recommended PSUs. What about Corsair or Silverstone?.

After watching your SSD video I think This would be a better option. I believe the motherboard I chose has the correct connector also.

That motherboard does have an M.2 socket on the underside of the board and I do recommend using M.2 drives when possible, such as in this case. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Dec 30, 2016 2:23 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Right now I use dual monitors and one is connected via DVI and one through HDMI. Nothing wrong with this setup so I'm just gonna do the same thing and not waste money on a video card when I don't even play games at all.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Dec 30, 2016 2:31 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Purchased the Motherboard today from Amazon. Gonna purchase the items one by one, can't afford to get everything at once.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Dec 30, 2016 2:51 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott I read a few of the reviews on Amazon on the SSD that I picked. They mention you need a "retaining screw" and that it's not provided by Samsung. Is this something that should come with my motherboard?.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Dec 30, 2016 7:10 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I'd like this post to be deleted because I'm no longer using the case I mentioned. Since there is no option for me to delete it, I'm editing it.

Last edited by FatGuy on Tue Jan 03, 2017 7:39 pm, edited 1 time in total.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Dec 31, 2016 1:30 am

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

That motherboard only has a single chassis fan connector, so I'd only connect the rear fan especially if you didn't have hard drives installed in the front of the chassis. Note that the 750W PSU is massive overkill on an ITX motherboard system like this, you could easily get away with a 150W supply although I don't know of any quality units rated that low. In any case, the 750W supply will work fine (it will essentially be idling) and the cooling will be the least of the concerns with actual power usage this low. I'd recommend a smaller case considering the motherboard and boot drive you are using. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Dec 31, 2016 12:59 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

That link is incorrectly going to the wrong Motherboard. GA-H170M-D3H is the correct model number. I'll have to look for different case. I just really like removable motherboard tray. Anyway I also edited the link in the first post so it would go to the correct MB.

Last edited by FatGuy on Sat Dec 31, 2016 2:33 pm, edited 1 time in total.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Dec 31, 2016 1:17 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Delete this post please and thank you!.

Last edited by FatGuy on Tue Jan 03, 2017 7:40 pm, edited 1 time in total.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Dec 31, 2016 1:30 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Delete this please.

Last edited by FatGuy on Tue Jan 03, 2017 7:40 pm, edited 1 time in total.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Dec 31, 2016 1:38 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

So really all that will be in the case is the Motherboard with components.....I may get a HDD to put it in there for back up, but not even sure if that's worth it, since I could get one of those docking stations like you have in your video and do it that way. I'm sure it would make for a faster backup if I put the HDD in the case though. Yes the Power Supply is overkill...

I was going to use Win 7 Pro 64 bit again, but since support is ending soon I may just go with Win 10 Pro 64 bit. Not necessarily what I want to do but I'd rather have an OS that it still supported for a few years while I use it, especially for a brand new build.

I was going to use Win 7 Pro 64 bit again, but since support is ending soon I may just go with Win 10 Pro 64 bit. Not necessarily what I want to do but I'd rather have an OS that it still supported for a few years while I use it, especially for a brand new build.

I'll keep looking at power supply units. As for keeping the fans as they have them there are 2 included in the front(120mm) and 1 for the Top(120mm) included. So that doesn't equal more air flow out than in. I'm just stuck on that because that's what I've always remembered you teaching. I'll defer to you on the cooling though. So with that info, does it still sound like I should keep the fans as is?.

How can I install software before installing an operating system?. Or this is just saying to install something so I can install Windows 7 from a Usb Flash drive and "install" the software from Gigabyte onto the drive so Windows 7 can be installed from a Usb Flash drive?. Very confused about what they actually are trying to say.

Only a 3 year warranty though. Those reviews on Amazon are scary about the Corsair but I don't know how much I trust them anyway. I've read about some of them being fake and people actually getting paid to write fake reviews for the competition. Read that in an old Pc mag.com article.

I have to say though, it looks like Enermax has a really good reputation. A lot of good reviews on all their power supply units on Newegg. Glanced over some of the other Enermax reviews of other Power Supply Units on Amazon and couldn't find anything lower than 3 out of 5 stars. Just searched for "Enermax Power Supply" and scrolled through a few pages looking at the star ratings.

Last edited by FatGuy on Sun Jan 01, 2017 9:57 pm, edited 1 time in total.

That second link was from a 3rd party that sells on Newegg and they don't have very good reviews, so I guess I should forget about that one. I've been going back and fourth between Amazon on Newegg. On Amazon a lot of the reviews are saying they got some fake or pirated versions of Windows in the reviews. I'd think I'd be safe if I purchased from "Ships and Sold by Amazon.com". It's the 3rd party sellers I believe that you have to worry about. One kind of funny thing is one of the guys wrote a review of the OEM version of Win 7 Pro and proceeded to tell everyone that OEM versions are already installed on HP, Dell and other machines and that Amazon shouldn't be selling them because they are useless. I mean, come on, do some kind of research before you post.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 01, 2017 9:35 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

It wasn't a review it was the question and answer section,

Quote:

ALL "OEM" branded software has already been installed and activated on a pre-loaded "branded" (Dell, HP, etc) computer. OEM software is NOT intended for resale under any circumstances, and in the case of Windows OS software, will most likely NOT activate successfully... meaning BIG WASTE OF MONEY TO BUY!!Do NOT be fooled by the fact that it installs and all. Activation is the ultimate goal upon installation to determine if it is good or not! see less By Bert Smith on August 27, 2014

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 01, 2017 10:50 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

FatGuy wrote:

As for keeping the fans as they have them there are 2 included in the front(120mm) and 1 for the Top(120mm) included. So that doesn't equal more air flow out than in. I'm just stuck on that because that's what I've always remembered you teaching. I'll defer to you on the cooling though. So with that info, does it still sound like I should keep the fans as is?.

While it is more normal to have a depressurized case, it is also possible to have effective cooling with a pressurized case. Since that is how this one was designed, I'd probably leave it that way.

Quote:

For Windows 7 Scott, I don't understand this part on Gigabyte Website for the board,

They are saying that you must use a tool (installed on another computer) to create a bootable Win7 install flash drive in order to install Win7 on a system with this board. I recommend using Rufus over the "Windows USB Installation Tool".

If the descriptions are legitimate then the only differences between them are the price and the supplier, the actual media/licenses are identical.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 01, 2017 11:35 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Hmmm. I'm gonna write to them and clarification about the Windows Usb utility thing.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 01, 2017 11:49 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I downloaded the utility just to check it out and it seems it's just a utility to create a bootable Windows 7 image and so you can add USB 3.0 Drivers to the image and also "NVMe" drivers-which I'm guessing are drivers for SSD drive?. Only based on looking around the folder with Windows USB installation tool and finding folders in the "StorageControllers" folder, one "Intel_NVMe" and the other, "Samsung_NVMe".

The application has a Window with a drop down box that says "Source Path(CD-ROM) and another one below it that says "Destination Path(USB Drive)". Underneath three check boxes, "Add USB drivers to an offline Windows 7 image.", "Add NVMe drivers to an offline Windows 7 image.", and "Add Packages to an offline Windows 7 image."(This last one is ghosted out.

So to guess again I think that I could still use an external dvd writer to install connected to the USB 3.0 port on the front of the case. It'd probably be a little faster just using a USB flash drive image though. Correct?. I'm gonna get an external DVD writer anyway though just so I'll have it for certain things if I ever need it.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Mon Jan 02, 2017 12:07 am

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

You can vouch for the PC Power & Cooling one, I think I'm gonna stick with that choice for now then. I may look at different cases though in the mean time. Next thing I purchase will be the CPU in about a week.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Mon Jan 02, 2017 12:21 am

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Here is a different case that looks better in my opinion to the other one. With this one I can at least have an Optical drive or two installed.

This case is great but I don't like the fact that it has top vents and there is no filter to put over these vents. I'd think a filter would be important, unless you want things falling into your case while you are working. Not sure how that would happen, but I see it as a reasonably possibility that you could accidentally knock something off your desk and it could fall into your case while the pc is up and running. That could be a problem.

Last edited by FatGuy on Tue Jan 03, 2017 1:27 pm, edited 1 time in total.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Mon Jan 02, 2017 12:49 am

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Only thing I'm concerned with is on that case it says:

Maximum ATX PSU length 180mm

The dimensions for the PC Power & Cooling are 5.91" x 3.39" x 7.09"- If I'm correct, that last one is length, right?. Well according to google, 180mm is 7.08661, so rounded off I'd just make it.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Mon Jan 02, 2017 1:10 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

Yes, according to that it should fit fine. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Mon Jan 02, 2017 1:28 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott, as far as optical drives, is there anything in particular you recommend? I was thinking about getting a Blu Ray burner, but I don't watch blue ray movies or anything. How would a blu ray burner be for making back ups or bootable diagnostic discs?. Worth the money?. Or should I just go with a regular Dvd burner?. Sorry Scott, my last PC I built was in 2010 I believe, so I'm a bit out of practice and don't know much about the current technologies.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2017 1:31 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Found This! for the problem I was talking about earlier!. I'll order it!. Apparently the case doesn't come with it.

Scott, as far as optical drives, is there anything in particular you recommend? I was thinking about getting a Blu Ray burner, but I don't watch blue ray movies or anything. How would a blu ray burner be for making back ups or bootable diagnostic discs?. Worth the money?. Or should I just go with a regular Dvd burner?. Sorry Scott, my last PC I built was in 2010 I believe, so I'm a bit out of practice and don't know much about the current technologies.

So what do you think about this Scott?. Is a Blu-Ray burner worth the extra money if I only use it for making bootable diagnostic cds, back ups, and possibly installing some software on occasion if for some reason I want to have a physical copy for some reason.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2017 9:44 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

FatGuy wrote:

Is a Blu-Ray burner worth the extra money if I only use it for making bootable diagnostic cds, back ups, and possibly installing some software on occasion if for some reason I want to have a physical copy for some reason.

No, unless you need to copy Blu-Ray movies or need to store that much data on an optical disc I'd recommend a DVD drive. DVD drives are all that is necessary to make bootable installation media. Normally I would recommend flash storage for any data you wanted to keep. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Jan 03, 2017 10:28 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott wrote:

FatGuy wrote:

Is a Blu-Ray burner worth the extra money if I only use it for making bootable diagnostic cds, back ups, and possibly installing some software on occasion if for some reason I want to have a physical copy for some reason.

No, unless you need to copy Blu-Ray movies or need to store that much data on an optical disc I'd recommend a DVD drive. Scott.

Thanks for all your help Scott!. I'll just get a regular OEM dvd burner.

For that small difference in price I'd say it would be more than worth it. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2017 7:18 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Question for you Scott. The motherboard only supports that CPU with the most current bios update. So F21 released on 12/12/2016. Now if the board I receive doesn't have that version of the bios, would it function enough for me to be able to use the Q-flash utility and flash the bios before I install the OS?. Or would I have to return the motherboard and make sure I got a new version with that bios version?. I'd have to guess that it would be fine and at least functional enough to do the flash.

Maybe this is a silly question because this type of situation must happen all the time. The new bios updates for newer versions of CPU's only upgrade certain features and maybe speeds, but they should still be functional enough to be able do flash. Is this correct Scott?. Or am I way off?.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Jan 06, 2017 7:30 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

When I called Gigabyte support the guy had a really strong Chinese accent. So I believe he was saying that that cpu is supported with the newest bios. He was also saying that only certain boards with certain serial numbers have that bios installed. That shouldn't matter though I wouldn't think. I'd think you'd be able to flash update to the newest bios with that CPU even if the board doesn't "officially" support it without that version of the bios....

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 08, 2017 2:54 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

I wouldn't bet on being able to do the update with the new (unsupported) CPU installed unless they specifically tell you that will work. I've had situations in the past where a motherboard would fail POST with an unsupported CPU, meaning it is dead in the water. In that case I had to install an older (supported) CPU in order to perform the BIOS update, then re-install the newer (now supported) CPU. Let me know what you find, Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 08, 2017 3:35 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I just call support back and ask for clarification so I can possibly ship the MB back for a newer version.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 08, 2017 4:09 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Wouldn't I still be able to get into cmos without it passing the POST?. There was a certain number or range of numbers the guy told me for the serial number. After a certain number and higher, has the newest bios that I need. Below that doesn't. Stupid me didn't write those numbers down. I'll call back tomorrow. So say if it doesn't support it, I suppose I could ship it Gigabyte and have them flash it for me or send me a newer version of the board. I purchased it from Amazon. I could return and maybe ask them if they have a "newer batch" or something but I doubt they will understand what I'm talking about.

I just received the motherboard on Saturday but haven't opened the box that it shipped in. I kind of don't want to open the inner box or break the seal if I have to ship it back though. Maybe the serial number will be on the outer box.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 08, 2017 4:52 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I can't seem to find a bios revision listed on the box. The serial number is listed though. So I opened the box and looked at the motherboard in the anti-static bag. Can't find a bios revision listed on it. They should put this on a stick on the box, that would be helpful. I did notice there is a hole in the anti-static bag though. Maybe I should just return it to Amazon for now?. It's return eligible till Feb 6th.

What do you think Scott?. The little hole in the anti-static bag does make me nervous and there wasn't even a piece of tape or anything on the motherboard box. I could always return it, and get my money back and wait to purchase the mother board for a month or so. At that point maybe I'll get the F21 bios version?.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 08, 2017 5:36 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

This H270 chipset version looks good. However, I can't seem to find it available anywhere yet. Is that chipset even released yet Scott?.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 08, 2017 5:50 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I've only found it available for pre-order overseas. It was $114 as converted from 92.99 GBP on pre-order. Not sure how much overseas shipping is though. Do you think it's a good idea to order it from overseas as a pre-order?. Or I could just wait. It supports my CPU I ordered so that's good.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 08, 2017 6:06 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ok It's all boxed up and ready to go. Amazon returns are simple and they even pay for return shipping.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 08, 2017 6:21 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

FatGuy wrote:

I've only found it available for pre-order overseas. It was $114 as converted from 92.99 GBP on pre-order. Not sure how much overseas shipping is though. Do you think it's a good idea to order it from overseas as a pre-order?. Or I could just wait. It supports my CPU I ordered so that's good.

Actually I put in my Basket and the price was cheaper. It ends up being $122 total in USD with shipping.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jan 08, 2017 6:35 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

With This board I will also be able to upgrade to an Intel Optane drive when they become available. Hopefully the board will be available soon.

Those are in the Qualified Vendor List. So I'll get one more module before the build and possibly 2 more in the future to fully upgrade the ram in the GA-H270-DS3H.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Mon Jan 09, 2017 8:00 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott, Question about SSD interface/form factor.

This one says the "interface" is "PCI-Express 3.0 x4" but the "form factor" is "M.2 2280". My understanding of an "interface" is just something that you plug into. "Form Factor" is a set of physical specifications.

Cheaper one. The "interface" is "SATA III" and the "form factor" is "M.2 2280" which is the same form factor as the expensive one.

Ok so is the only advantage of having the cheaper one connect to the M.2 2280 slot, is that it takes up less space or something and leaves some 2.5" bays free?. I'm just confused as to why they would connect to the same connector which they describe as the "form factor" but have a different "interface". Why have it connect to the M2 but actually go just as slow as connecting to just a regular Sata III port?. To me that doesn't make much sense. Now I'm thinking of getting the more expensive one because it connects to PCI express Generation 3 x4 bus, which is so much faster. Otherwise what is the point of purchasing an SSD that connects to M2 but runs at the same speed as connecting it to Sata III?.

Help me learn Scott. Maybe I'm mis-understanding things here because of the terminology used. It just sounds wrong.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Jan 10, 2017 12:29 am

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

Interfaces are different from form factors, however a form factor usually specifies one or more interfaces. There is no such thing as a "SATA III" interface, so the former appears to be a more accurate usage of the terminology, but they are different nonetheless.

The M.2 standard supports 3 different interfaces. The examples you posted use two different interfaces (PCIe vs. SATA). You would have to make sure that the motherboard supported both the form factor and the interface you choose. Let me know what you find, Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Jan 10, 2017 1:15 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Yes I believe the GA-H270M-DS3H supports both the "form factor" M.2 and the PCI Express 3.0 generation and has one running at x4 -"Interface".

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Jan 17, 2017 7:13 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott, for future reference any tips for when I install Windows 7 pro 64 bit on this new pc?. Specifically I'm worried about it installing Windows 10 without my permission.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Jan 17, 2017 7:16 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Or is worrying about it installing without my permission something I no longer have to worry about?.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Jan 17, 2017 7:22 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

Since the "free upgrade" option has technically expired, that is no longer an issue. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2017 3:25 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Purchased 2 more sticks of Ram today. So I'll be getting one more later and have the ram slots all full when I build. I'll be using the max amount of ram supported by the board, 64GB. Waiting on the SSD still because it isn't in stock for the cheapest price. Ok so now I have all the ram and will fill up the board to max.(1/25/17). Motherboard should be available soon. Still waiting on SSD to be in stock.

Last edited by FatGuy on Wed Jan 25, 2017 1:33 pm, edited 1 time in total.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Mon Jan 23, 2017 11:05 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Looking at This for a cpu heatsink/fan. I really don't like the flimsy plastic "screws" that come on the stock Intel coolers Scott. On my current one one of the screws is somewhat screwed up. I just want something more hearty.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Mon Jan 23, 2017 11:40 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

I'd spend that money on a better/faster CPU, but that's just me. <g> Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2017 11:40 am

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott , when it says "Supports up to 70W Intel CPUs"...I don't understand because I thought that all cpu coolers will support any cpu as long they specify they fit the correct "form factor". For example, this one says it supports LGA 1151 / 1150 / 1155 / 1156. So does the wattage of the CPU even matter?. Or if it is one of those form factors, will they only be up to 70W anyway?.

Intel makes CPUs of many different power (wattage) consumption levels in a given socket form factor. A given heat sink will be designed both for a specific level of power dissipation as well as a form factor, so you do have to consider both specifications.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed Jan 25, 2017 4:11 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott, could you explain that in further detail for me or refer me to certain pages in your current U&R PCs?. So with the cpu I chose it is 65 watts. That is the amount of power it draws from the motherboard, yes?. Higher wattage CPUs would need more cooling because they product more heat, correct?. Having a 65 watt CPU and cpu cooler designed for "up to 70 watts", would that be considered "cutting it close"?. Or is it just, "It draws 65 watts" and that's it.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Thu Jan 26, 2017 11:26 am

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

FatGuy wrote:

Scott, could you explain that in further detail for me or refer me to certain pages in your current U&R PCs?.

See the "Processor Cooling" section in the chapter on Processors.

Quote:

So with the cpu I chose it is 65 watts. That is the amount of power it draws from the motherboard, yes?.

Yes.

Quote:

Higher wattage CPUs would need more cooling because they product more heat, correct?.

Correct.

Quote:

Having a 65 watt CPU and cpu cooler designed for "up to 70 watts", would that be considered "cutting it close"?. Or is it just, "It draws 65 watts" and that's it.

If the processor draws up to 65W then it would be adequately cooled by a heat sink rated for 70W. However that does mean that when the CPU is under maximum load that the cooler will also be near maximum output. This generally means higher fan speeds with more noise, which can result in a shorter life for the fan as well as a greater ingestion of dust and dirt (more maintenance). I prefer to have an oversized cooler that only has to work at say half capacity for a given CPU. This results in a quieter, cleaner system that will last longer with less maintenance.

Note that the cooler you purchased is a special low-profile model, designed to fit in 1U (thin) rack servers. It offers no more cooling capacity than the one Intel supplies with the processor. If I wanted a better cooler for that money I would have purchased a much larger (taller, not artificially size-restricted) unit with a higher thermal design power rating. Scott.

Last edited by FatGuy on Tue Mar 21, 2017 2:28 pm, edited 2 times in total.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Feb 17, 2017 3:11 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I'm looking at a different cooler now also. This one.Not sure about though as it might be overkill because I don't plan on overclocking and I don't play games. Might stick with the former choice, not sure though.

So I'm almost ready to build. I'll get the CPU cooler next and start the build finally. Not even sure I would really need an optical drive. They are so cheap though so I will get one.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Mar 25, 2017 12:10 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I received my PSU today. The box was half open like the tape had come off and the flaps were halfway up. Those packing plastic bubble like things were popped. The inner box that the actual PSU was in looks fine though, no dents in the box and the cellophane wrapping isn't even scratched. I don't know if this is something I should return it for as I don't know if the PSU was damaged during shipment. As far as I can tell though I don't think it was, because like I say the actual box with the PSU in it looks fine. It is a PC Power and Cooling Supply and it looks like they are really good about the way they package their PSUs for retail and/or shipment.

Scott there is one thing I'm a bit confused on. The motherboard I've chosen supports Usb 3.1, the case on the other hand has two front "Usb 3.0" ports. Does the fact that these ports are Usb 3.0 mean then will only run at the Usb 3.0 speed even if I plugged them in the USB 3.1 headers on the motherboard?.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Apr 18, 2017 12:19 am

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

USB 3.1 Gen 1 has the same 5 Gb/s (aka SuperSpeed) maximum data signaling rate as USB 3.0 so most newer motherboards supporting USB 3.0 have simply renamed the ports as USB 3.1, even though there is no change in the performance or operation of the actual port. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 2:55 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Building today. On the phone with coolermaster support. This cooler is a big 'ol pain in the ass to install. I started taking the green backing off even though I wasn't supposed to because it looked like it was supposed to be removed. Only a little bit. The guy on the phone said that was fine and it's just an anti-static barrier and I could just sort of put it back on and it's not a big deal.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 3:33 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Finally got the stupid thing on. I had the plate that goes on the motherboard upside down. Plus I had to keep readjusting things to get everything in line. All the spring-loaded screws on the cooler had to be in just the perfect spot. Hope I didn't cause any damage or static damage. I didn't have my anti-static band on the whole time. I'm gonna believe it's fine. No visible scratches on the motherboard or anything. Just a huge pain in the ass Scott. Now I'll put the ram and SSD on the motherboard before I put it in the case.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 4:03 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Cooler fan was in the way. I was able to get the retaining screw out though carefully and put the ssd in the m2 slot. Also was able to screw the retaining screw back in just snug enough. It only has to hold down the card so it doesn't have to be super tight. I'd like to be able to get some very short screwdriver though so I can get at it easier next time without having to take the cooler off. Scott you know where online I could get very very short screwdrivers. The screw is tiny also so I'll need a tiny philips head with a tiny amount of handle.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 4:28 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott, question...This case has a rubber piece that I guess helps you line things up. Once everything is lined up there is one motherboard screw hole that doesn't have a standoff behind it. I'm guessing this is fine because there really is no other way to line up the motherboard correctly and having that standoff line up.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 4:37 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I had one of the motherboard screws on my screwdriver head, magnitized it...Anyway I lifted the screwdriver and dropped it somewhere in the case. I shook the case and still can't find it. Hope it didn't get in the heatsink. I'll have to take the fan off the heat sink to check, but I don't think the fins are far enough apart that it could get stuck in there.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 4:50 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Well there is no way it's in the case, because I shook it and turned it all different ways. It must have fell out on the floor or something.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 5:00 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Cooler covers almost the entire motherboard. Crazy.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 5:16 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott, PSU fan should be facing the bottom of the case when installed, is this correct?

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 5:45 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ok Scott, I know you've answered this before countless times, but one more time. The case fans have 3 pin connections, but my motherboard has 4 pin fan headers...What to do?.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 6:16 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Still a little concerned about that lost screw but honestly have no clue where it went. The space in between the fins on the heat sink is too small for the screw to fit. I took off the fan and looked and even put the same type of screw up to it to see if it would be able to. I turned the case upside down shook it side to side. Nothing. Now when I lost the screw the case was flat on it's side, so there is no way it could have gone under the motherboard if you consider how gravity works. There isn't much in the case for it be stuck on. Maybe it went on the floor somewhere and I'll find it tomorrow or something.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 6:36 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I have a machine to blow up air mattresses that I use to clean out dust. I use that on it tomorrow, if it's in there somewhere that will make it fall out. I don't think it is though.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 21, 2017 9:14 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott where can I find extremely short screwdrivers with a tiny phillips head?.

I'll be getting new case fans for this since the fans in the case both have only 3 pin connections. No point in running a case fan without PWM when the motherboard has that ability. Scott, don't most all motherboards purchased within the last 7 years or so have 4 pin headers anyway?. I don't understand why they would put 3 pin connections on the fans. If I had to guess I would say they are trying to save money and get the cheapest fans available.

Although I'm thinking of just leaving the front fan-less. Only because a 140mm fan moves more air than a 120mm, so it will be moving more hot air into the case, while the 120mm struggles to keep up trying to remove the hot air. The 140mm would be in front of the drive cage to cool the drives, but there is nothing to keep cool.

With the cpu cooler fan there is only about 2-3 inches clearance between it and the rear fan.

What do you think Scott?.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 11:30 am

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

I would only run a single rear fan. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 1:54 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Alright then. What do you think about the fact that there is very little clearance between the rear fan and the actual CPU fan. Like I say about 2 inches. I would have to guess that whatever the cpu fan blows down, the rear fan would just be pulling out. I will get a picture for you.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 4:19 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

A few.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 4:30 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

See what I mean Scott?

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 5:17 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I also believe the front panel "notches" are broken. It still holds but is easily knocked over and open. There is a little panel that you are able to take off and that's what falls easily. I'm gonna see if I can just purchase a front panel replace instead of RMAing the entire case.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 5:48 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

The clearance seems fine. I would run both of the fans at lower speeds. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 5:48 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ok I submitted a ticket with corsair so maybe I can get a replacement front panel for free.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 5:49 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ok then, should the PWM fans that I linked work fine then? You mean both a front 140mm and a rear 120mm?. Correct?.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 7:35 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Hey Scott at least I didn't have a problem with the I/O shield this time!.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 10:19 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

By "both" of the fans I meant only the CPU and rear chassis fan. I don't see the need to run a front fan in this case. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 10:25 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ahh, Ok!. Thanks again Scott for all you help!.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 10:39 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott, my PSU has two modes, "Normal Mode: Fan always operates with variable RPM determined by temperature and power loads."

Or,

"Silent Mode: Fan remains idle at specific temperature = Zero Noise. Reduce unnecessary rotation in order to increase the life span of the fan and dust accumulation. Decrease unnecessary consumption to increase the efficiency."

Silent mode makes the most sense to me, however I'd like you opinion on this.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat Apr 22, 2017 10:55 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

I would definitely choose silent mode to begin with. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2017 2:15 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott, I forgot, when flashing the bios should I just flash the latest one?. They are cumulative correct?. Each successive update has all previous fixes and updates included. Yes?.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Apr 25, 2017 11:12 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

Yes indeed. A BIOS flash image is a complete image of the ROM and when installed it completely replaces the previous copy. As such it is not cumulative in any way. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2017 3:56 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Thanks Scott. I mis-understood the definition of the term "cumulative". Now I have a better understanding of it's meaning. Look at you Scott, teaching me vocabulary!.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2017 3:58 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Corsair is replacing the front panel free of charge. They updated my "ticket" today and said it was approve so now I just have to wait for them to ship it out.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed Apr 26, 2017 7:06 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

That's good to hear! Let me know the outcome. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri Apr 28, 2017 1:15 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ok So I placed the order for the 120mm fan. I even purchased a Flash Voyager® Slider X1 USB 3.0 128GB USB Drive (Refurbished) from Corsair just to do my OS install, even though I could probably find one I could use. It was a great deal though at $21.99 and $4.89 shipping($26.88 total). So why not, right Scott?. My replacement front panel is scheduled for delivery next Thursday 5/4/17. So at that time I'll replace the front panel, add the fan and wire everything up. Then I'll download the latest bios and try and use Q-flash to flash to the latest Bios before making my image to install from the flash drive.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue May 02, 2017 9:10 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Got the Usb drive today and made my image with the software from Gigabyte support. Had problems at first with it not adding the drivers. Tried a "Clean boot" and that didn't work, tried running the software in safe mode and that worked. Now just waiting on my case fan and front panel which should be here Thursday.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Thu May 04, 2017 3:20 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Tried using the anti-vibration mounts for new case fan and it didn't go well. Took forever and was too much of a pain in the butt. Used the regular fan screws and it was a much better fit. There just wasn't much clearance the other way and I was trying to pull the rubber mounts out from the inside of the case and the heat sink got in the way. I replaced the front panel with the new one and attached the front panel connections to the motherboard. I'm gonna look everything over just to make I didn't miss anything and then start it up and try entering the bios and use Q-flash to flash to newest bios. Hopefully this goes well Scott!

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Thu May 04, 2017 6:04 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Well Scott, I'm having trouble getting the new pc to boot from the flash drive. It shows up in the bios setup and is also in the boot menu when hitting F12. I select it but get an error saying to insert a proper boot device. So it shows up in bios but for some reason I can't boot from it.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Thu May 04, 2017 6:11 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I've contacted Gigabyte support on this but I'm not holding my breath. They still didn't get back to me from the last problem of their software not working correctly. I was able to fix that myself by using safe mode. However seems it still didn't work right because it won't boot from the "bootable" USB image I created.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Thu May 04, 2017 6:26 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

Try going in the BIOS Setup (with the device inserted) and change the boot order sequence so that the flash drive is first, then save and exit. Scott.

So I tried a different flash drive today. Tried different ports also. No luck. Hopefully Gigabyte gets back to be sometime next week.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue May 09, 2017 4:15 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Got a reply from Gigabyte today saying that if the image was created successfully there should be two listings for my usb drive, one with the model number and one with "UEFI" in front. I replied and told them there was only one listing.

Also I read on the link that I put in my last reply that one guy tried extracting the tool to the root directory and that worked for some reason and got rid of the error. Although the error doesn't come up when run in safe mode, I'm thinking that it still didn't create the image correctly because the usb flash isn't bootable.

Gigabyte support also suggested I try running the tool from Windows 10 but I don't have any windows 10 pcs. I've tried loading optimized defaults in the cmos....Tried disabling everything else and just leaving my usb flash drive as the only boot device. Guess I'm gonna have to wait for Gigabyte to write back again. I think they need to re-write their usb installation tool software because it obviously has problems. They haven't updated it since November 2016.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue May 09, 2017 4:18 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Quote:

No there is only one listing with the model of the flash drive. There is not an additional listing with UEFI in the front. 5/8/2017 7:51 PMAnswer: In that case the image is not created successfully otherwise there should be 2 listing from the Boot Menu.Do you have a WIndows 10 image you can try booting off, you will see there will be 2 Boot option when you hit F12, your Windows 7 image should show the same if it's done correctly.

Thank you

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue May 09, 2017 4:19 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Quote:

Question: I was able to use your usb installation tool to make a usb flash install for windows 7 pro 64 bit, using safe mode. That's the only way it would work. Now the problem is I'm unable to boot from it. I can select it in the boot menu if I press f12. However when I select it I get an error saying to insert a proper boot device and press any key. Please help! 5/4/2017 8:10 PMAnswer: Hi Steve,

If the Image was able to be created successfully, during boot with the Boot menu it should register 2 listing with the flash drive.One with the model # of the flash drive along with an additional listing with UEFI in front.

Ok Scott. I actually got it to boot by using a different Usb Flash drive. It wouldn't boot as NTFS, but when I reformatted it as FAT32 it was bootable. Now the problem is I get and error and it can't find my Samsung SSD. I tried looking for the drivers online and then I burned them to a dvd and put the dvd in the pc at this type, browsed to the driver but still it couldn't find the SSD. The drivers were supposed to be integrated into the flash drive and in safe mode the tool "works" but I guess it just didn't add the drivers. So I don't know, maybe I'll just order a copy of Windows 10. I can't return this OEM version of Win 7 Pro 64 bit. Want to trade or something?.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed May 10, 2017 3:58 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I can find the Nve driver from Samsung on their website but it's an application and and not a file.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed May 10, 2017 4:21 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I called Samsung and they told me the only way to install windows 7 on the 960 EVO is to install windows 7 on a regular HDD and install the driver for the SSD, then clone the HDD to the SSD. I guess I could do that but it's a pain in the ass. So now every time I wanted to re-install I'd have to do the same thing or just make an image of Windows 7 installed with macrium reflect or some other imaging software. It'd be easier just to get Window 10 and then I wouldn't have to worry about this mess. Don't know what I'm gonna do at this point. Scott, do you have a need for a Windows 7 pro 64 bit license?.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed May 10, 2017 4:27 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

The issue is that the SATA host adapter is newer than the OS and thus unless set to legacy mode it won't be supported without a driver, which is not present on the Windows 7 install media. In that case you will need the Intel SATA preinstall driver added to the installation media to support AHCI mode during the install: http://www.gigabyte.us/Motherboard/GA-H ... support-dl

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed May 10, 2017 4:30 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

It's attached to the m2 slot, not Sata.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed May 10, 2017 4:51 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

The M.2 slot is in fact a SATA 3 port. When an M.2 SATA SSD is installed the SATA 3 #0 port on the motherboard cannot be used as they share the same signals. See the motherboard manual for more information.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed May 10, 2017 4:54 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ok Scott, so should I be able to just burn that to a dvd and then browse for it when it asks for drivers?

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed May 10, 2017 5:07 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

See the section in the manual titled "Installing the SATA RAID/AHCI Driver and Operating System". Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed May 10, 2017 6:28 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ok Scott that didn't end up working. It gave me an error and said to contact my vendor for an updated driver. The first error I get to be specific before any of this is "A required CD/DVD device driver is missing". I also tried installing a different driver for the SSD that I found online. It showed up as Samsung Nvme. I clicked on it and it scanned for a bit and said "No new devices found". I'm really at my wits end with this thing. Seriously considering just getting a copy of Windows 10. I will have wasted the $125 I spent on Windows 7, but at least it will install without me having to jump through hoops. Gigabyte "support" has been worthless.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed May 10, 2017 6:41 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

Are you using a USB DVD drive? If not it won't be recognized at boot without the proper drivers being integrated into the installation media. I recommend installing from a USB DVD or Rufus created flash drive. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Wed May 10, 2017 7:11 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I'm installing from a usb flash drive and I try and load the drivers from a dvd drive already installed on the pc. I also tried copying the driver files to a folder on the flash drive and that has not worked either. I think I might just install windows 7 on a regular HDD, then install the Samsung Nvme drivers and then clone the HDD to SSD. Then remove the HDD and get a usb 3.0 dock and make images for back up that way.

You see though the CD/DVD drive is recognized though Scott. That's where I'm installing the drivers from. That error I get about the CD/DVD driver has a different meaning than what it is saying, I think.

He says that Windows 7 comes with an old driver called "EHCI" and you need "XHCI". That's what their useless software is supposed to do.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Thu May 11, 2017 12:31 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott I was able to install Windows 7 using the dvd. I took out the windows 7 dvd when it asked for drivers and put in the dvd the I copied the driver I found for Nvme. Then when done loading the driver I just put the windows 7 dvd back in. The only problem is Intel Core i5-7500 Kaby Lake Quad-Core 3.4 GHz LGA 1151 65W BX80677I57500 Desktop Processor is not supported by Intel with Windows 7 so there is no driver for it. I also got a message I believe from Microsoft, saying that my hardware was designed for the latest version of windows so I will miss important security updates. Something like that anyway. So now Intel won't even support Windows 7. I could either purchase Windows 10 or get a graphics card. One of the reasons I chose this board and cpu combo was for the built in video. It would sure be a lot easier if I just purchased Windows 10. Anything I have to do that's important I leave to 3rd party software anyway. Surely I can change settings and things around in Windows 10 so it will be bearable.

I hadn't changed the link in my first post yet and I was looking at the wrong graphics, thinking I had a 6th gen. So I looked in my device manager and was like, "oh duh!". So no support from intel and it's been such a pain in the ass installing. Microsoft got me!. I'm just gonna wait and purchase Windows 10 pro 64 bit. It should be a lot easier to install anyway.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri May 12, 2017 6:04 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ok Scott, I installed the beta version Intel HD 630 graphics driver from the motherboard website. However I also chatted with Intel support and they said they have no plans to release a driver for Windows 7 64 bit on 7th gen intel processors.

Also on that new pc "they" have blocked me from downloading updates because of my Kaby Lake Cpu,

I may try this Scott, but how long can I continue without dealing with more issues?. Especially now that it seems Intel is on board with screwing users of Windows 7. Given that I don't build new pcs very often though I think I might be better off getting Windows 10 pro 64 now. Sure it might be a pain tweaking it and getting it to the point where I like it but it'll be a much easier install with native support for Nvme. I'd also question how long it will be before Microsoft decides to screw the Windows 7 users again somehow.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri May 19, 2017 8:09 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ok I've got Windows 10 Pro 64 installed. Much much easier and smoother install. Windows boots very fast. I'm now wondering what these utilities do that are downloadable from the motherboard manufacturer. They really don't have much descriptions of them.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri May 19, 2017 10:48 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Really enjoy the "Ultra-Fast Boot" option in the cmos and UEFI bios. Just figured out how to get into it after changing to "Ultra-Fast" boot. You have to hold shift down while clicking on restart.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Fri May 19, 2017 10:54 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

It's a great illusion.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat May 20, 2017 9:51 am

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Yeah, I thought I read that the pc isn't completely off when you use that option?. Not that that matters. I'd rather have it available right away instead of having to wait. New Pc seems to be working fine so far, which is surprising with how much I manhandled the motherboard putting that huge cooler on.

Well that can't be true because I turned the power off to the PC on the PSU switch for a while. Then powered it on and boot time was the same. It's a super fast boot.

Last edited by FatGuy on Sat May 20, 2017 3:17 pm, edited 1 time in total.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat May 20, 2017 12:05 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I did install Thunderbird for my mail on the new pc.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue May 23, 2017 5:35 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott, I had a weird thing happen today. I got a notification from the realtek software saying that I removed and replaced an audio jack. I did not. I wasn't even listening to music or anything and haven't had any problems with audio. It just popped up and said that I removed an audio jack and then said I plugged in an audio jack.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue May 23, 2017 6:22 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I guess this is a common problem with Windows 10 and Realtek audio...Some people have it worse then me. It's only happened once. Some say it's a driver issue and some say it's a front port issue. Now I can't hardly believe that it's a front port issue because that would me that every single person that has this issue has bad/broken front ports. That's laughable.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue May 23, 2017 6:34 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Just for giggles I could always order a new front panel with the audio ports. The case is still under warranty but I doubt I will be able to prove the front panel is defective. Besides this has only happened once. Maybe I should wait to see if it ever happens again.

Scott, what do you think about this problem with the RealTek software saying I removed and replaced an audio cable?. I disabled the front panel audio. The problem is so common that even in the real tech software under "connector settings", there is a popup if I hover over "Disable front panel jack detection" that says "If front panel jack detection is not working properly, please check this option.". Well, I did and now there is no problem. However, I still consider this a problem because it's just a workaround.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat May 27, 2017 4:44 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

I took a picture of the front panel where the audio connects. I can not see any type of damage or anything so I doubt they would replace it for free. I still think it's a software problem.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat May 27, 2017 4:47 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat May 27, 2017 5:04 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

FatGuy wrote:

Scott, what do you think about this problem with the RealTek software saying I removed and replaced an audio cable?. I disabled the front panel audio. The problem is so common that even in the real tech software under "connector settings", there is a popup if I hover over "Disable front panel jack detection" that says "If front panel jack detection is not working properly, please check this option.". Well, I did and now there is no problem. However, I still consider this a problem because it's just a workaround.

I'm gonna place an order for the front panel piece just to see if maybe it does have some defect. If not than it's just a spare. Only $14.88 total with shipping, so it's not bad and I don't mind having spare parts for my case.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat May 27, 2017 5:18 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

The thing is that it doesn't do it all the time only after my pc has been on a while. I use the front panel usb slot to put in and take out a usb stick several times a day. I'm thinking maybe since it's a bit tight pulling the usb stick out that something or some wires connected to the audio jacks could be loose or something. I couldn't see anything wrong from looking at the part but I was not able to take it completely apart. Does this sound plausible?.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat May 27, 2017 5:40 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

It's possible but I suspect it's more likely a non-conforming design. You could see if the design matches the schematics shown in the documents I linked to in my previous post. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat May 27, 2017 6:44 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Forgive my ignorance but what would I be matching up?. I can not find any schematics for the Corsair Obsidian 350D. Would I match up AC97 in the link and schematics for front panel audio of the case?.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat May 27, 2017 6:55 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Wish I could recreate the issue, but like I say it's intermittent.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sat May 27, 2017 10:50 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

FatGuy wrote:

Forgive my ignorance but what would I be matching up?. I can not find any schematics for the Corsair Obsidian 350D. Would I match up AC97 in the link and schematics for front panel audio of the case?.

You would disassemble the front panel connector assembly and trace the circuit to see if it matched the schematics supporting HD Audio as shown in the spec. documents I linked to. Note that AC97 is the old standard not supporting jack detection, HD Audio is the modern standard supporting jack detection. In other words if the front panel is wired like AC97 then jack detection is not supported. Scott.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun May 28, 2017 1:31 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Well I tried "unticking" that button just to see if maybe unplugging and re-plugging the connector yesterday might have fixed things. It did it again, so I ticked the button again. I did order that front panel piece, so I could take this one out and dis-asemble it and trace the wires. Or I could just keep it as a "known good spare". Either that or I could replace it with the new one coming and untick the button just to see if it was maybe defective somehow. I think I should at least do that, then if I get the same problem I know it's the software or it's a non-conforming design like you said Scott. If it was a non-conforming design though wouldn't there be more reports of this same problem with this exact case?. I mean there are tons of reports of this same problem with realtek, going back to 2004.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2017 3:29 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Something I just thought of....My old motherboard has the same RealTek audio and I didn't have this problem. Although I just let Windows handle things and didn't load the realtek software.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2017 3:59 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

After I replace the front panel, it's scheduled for Delivery on 6/6/17, I will re-enable the front panel detection to check if it was the front panel, which I doubt. If that works, fine. If not I'm gonna disable the built in audio and just get a PCI-E sound card instead. To be honest I would rather just get a sound card, since RealTek apparently has had this problem for many years.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Thu Jun 01, 2017 5:18 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ok Scott, today I used Ccleaner to disable RTHDVCPL from startup. Problem solved. I tried using headphones and plugging them in the front panel. Speakers muted and everything, unplugged it and speakers came back on. However I also tried plugging the headphones into the headphone port on the speakers and the sound was a bit lower than normal. Just had to adjust the volume on the headphone controls.

So to me, this proves it's not a driver problem but a problem with RealTek HD audio manager software.

Still gonna keep my order of my new front panel part and still gonna order a Sound Blaster sound card....Just because I know it's realteks problem that they obviously refuse to fix. There software doesn't work correctly and they don't care. Otherwise there wouldn't be so many reports of this exact problem.

FatGuy

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Tue Jun 06, 2017 12:24 pm

Joined: Tue May 08, 2007 8:54 pmPosts: 1384

Ok Scott, I received the new front panel today and just installed it. I re-enabled the Realtek Audio Manager and got the same "unplugged an audio device" and "plugged in an audio device". I knew it was the software, but figured I'd double check anyway. Look at it this way, now I have a "known good spare" for the front panel.

Hey Scott. I just put in my new sound card and of course the sound is 10 times "better" than the built in sound. Also the software actually works with the hardware. No problems. Who would have thought...Next time I choose a motherboard I'm gonna have to find one that doesn't use realtek.

Scott

Post subject: Re: New PC Build

Posted: Sun Jun 18, 2017 7:44 pm

Site Admin

Joined: Sun Feb 04, 2007 11:44 amPosts: 5829

That might be difficult as RealTek seems to be quite popular. However using a sound card is an excellent alternative. Thanks for letting me know the outcome. Scott.

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